Where to Stay in Zanzibar 2026 | Best Areas + Hotel Map
Zanzibar offers two distinct experiences: the cultural immersion of UNESCO-listed Stone Town and the tropical beach paradise of the coast. Most visitors split time between both. The north (Nungwi/Kendwa) has the best beaches without tidal issues, while the east coast (Paje/Matemwe) offers kitesurfing and seclusion. The island is compact but road quality varies.
Editor's Pick for First-Timers
Split between Stone Town and Nungwi/Kendwa
The ideal Zanzibar trip combines 1-2 nights in Stone Town for spice tours, history, and the atmospheric Forodhani night market, followed by beach days in Nungwi or Kendwa. This captures both the cultural depth and beach paradise Zanzibar offers.
Stone Town
Nungwi
Kendwa
Paje
Matemwe
Michamvi / Bwejuu
Quick Guide: Best Areas
Things to Know
- • East coast beaches are extremely tidal - water can be 1km out at low tide
- • Some very cheap Stone Town hotels have humidity and maintenance issues
- • Nungwi beach boys can be persistent - firm but polite refusal works
- • Rainy seasons (March-May, Nov) see some closures and rough roads
Understanding Zanzibar Geography
Zanzibar (Unguja) is a small island. Stone Town anchors the west coast near the ferry/airport. The north (Nungwi/Kendwa) has the best year-round swimming beaches. The east coast (Paje to Matemwe) has tidal beaches, great for kitesurfing. The interior has spice plantations and Jozani Forest.
Accommodation Map
Check availability and prices across Booking.com, Vrbo, and more.
Best Neighborhoods in Zanzibar
Stone Town
Best for: UNESCO old town, spice markets, Swahili culture, history
"Labyrinthine UNESCO World Heritage trading town"
Pros
- Cultural heart
- Historic hotels
- Dining variety
Cons
- No beach
- Can feel overwhelming
- Persistent touts
Nungwi
Best for: Best beaches, sunset views, dhow boat trips, lively atmosphere
"Zanzibar's most popular beach with backpacker-to-boutique mix"
Pros
- Best beaches
- No seaweed issues
- Active nightlife
Cons
- Touristy
- 1 hour from Stone Town
- Can feel busy
Kendwa
Best for: Pristine beach, full moon parties, relaxed vibe, swimming at all tides
"Slightly quieter than Nungwi with famous full moon parties"
Pros
- Swimmable at all tides
- Full moon parties
- Great beach
Cons
- Very isolated
- Limited dining off-resort
- Far from culture
Paje
Best for: Kitesurfing, boutique hotels, hipster vibe, east coast beaches
"Laid-back kitesurfing hub with trendy beach bars"
Pros
- World-class kitesurfing
- Hipster boutiques
- Less crowded
Cons
- Tidal beach
- Need transport
- Limited nightlife
Matemwe
Best for: Secluded luxury, Mnemba Island access, authentic village, quiet escape
"Remote east coast with luxury lodges and pristine reefs"
Pros
- Secluded
- Mnemba access
- Authentic village
Cons
- Very tidal
- Isolated
- Limited dining
Michamvi / Bwejuu
Best for: Quiet beaches, local atmosphere, budget-friendly east coast
"Sleepy east coast villages with untouched beach stretches"
Pros
- Peaceful
- The Rock nearby
- Authentic
Cons
- Very tidal
- Basic infrastructure
- Far from everything
Accommodation Budget in Zanzibar
Budget
Hostels, budget hotels, shared facilities
Mid-Range
3-star hotels, boutique stays, great locations
Luxury
5-star hotels, suites, premium amenities
💡 Prices vary by season. Book 2-3 months ahead for best rates.
Our Top Hotel Picks
€ Best Budget Hotels
Lost & Found Hostel
Stone Town
Social hostel with rooftop terrace, Stone Town views, and excellent location near Forodhani.
Flame Tree Cottages
Nungwi
Charming cottages set back from the beach with pool, gardens, and excellent value.
€€ Best Mid-Range Hotels
Emerson Spice
Stone Town
Legendary boutique in restored merchant house with rooftop Tea House and atmospheric rooms.
Essque Zalu Zanzibar
Nungwi
Stylish suites and villas with pool, beach access, and excellent restaurant. Modern beach luxury.
White Sand Luxury Villas & Spa
Paje
Boutique villas with pool, spa, and kitesurfing packages. East coast hip at its best.
€€€ Best Luxury Hotels
Park Hyatt Zanzibar
Stone Town
Five-star luxury in historic buildings with rooftop pool, spa, and impeccable service.
andBeyond Mnemba Island
Mnemba Island
Private island paradise with barefoot luxury, world-class diving, and castaway romance.
✦ Unique & Boutique Stays
The Rock Restaurant
Michamvi
While not accommodation, this iconic rock-perched restaurant is worth basing nearby. Several guesthouses in Michamvi.
Smart Booking Tips for Zanzibar
- 1 Book 2-3 months ahead for July-August and Christmas/New Year
- 2 Shoulder seasons (June, October) offer great weather and lower prices
- 3 Many beach resorts include breakfast and dinner (half-board) - compare total value
- 4 Spice tours and Stone Town walking tours book up - arrange on arrival day one
- 5 Negotiate taxi prices before starting - or ask hotel to arrange
Why you can trust this guide
We built this guide using recent climate data, hotel price trends, and our own trips, so you can pick the right month without guesswork.
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More Zanzibar Guides
Weather
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Best Time to Visit
Month-by-month weather and seasonal tips
Things to Do
Top attractions and hidden gems
Itineraries
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Overview
Complete travel guide for Zanzibar: top things to do, itineraries, and typical costs.